Thousands of people are expected to descend on Ipswich over the next three weeks as the town’s huge cultural festival, IP-Art, gets into full swing.

Tourism and business chiefs are hoping the event – which includes a weekend of music featuring chart-topping stars such as Jessie J, McBusted, Jason Derulo and Rizzle Kicks – will be a huge boost to the local economy and showcase the very best of the town.

Cinema, theatre, comedy, art, dance and vintage markets are also all part of the cultural bonanza.

Bryony Rudkin, Ipswich Borough Council’s culture portfolio-holder, said there was “something for everyone” at the festival.

“Everyone reads about the great festivals like Glastonbury and Latitude but IP-Art is people’s festival at home.

“We do know when visitors come to the town they spend money and people who live here also spend money.

“We are working to improve our understanding of that year on year. People do come out and it’s great for the shops, traders and businesses in the town.

“It’s a great summer opportunity, it’s a fantastic chance to showcase the town.”